Okay for a while I drove an International 9400 and it had these big Gate Valves that look like garden hose knobs on the A/C system. Said to close the valves during summer for better A/C performance.

This summer I'm driving a Freightliner Century and wondered if there are similar valves I should adjust if I want stronger A/C. I think I saw 2 small knobs on some tubing but wasn't sure if it was the same thing.

Also I have replaced my filter up front but I guess there is another one in the sleeper. It has a cover over it. I'm not sure how to get it out of the way.


A/C was recently fixed at a shop in Ohio and seems to be running okay but just wondered if I'd want it stronger if I'm in places like Laredo.

 

Those valves were closed to shut off coolant-flow through the heater core.

The plugged cabin filter will reduce airflow from vents.

 

You can also insulate your low pressure AC lines that go from to the cab. These lines will be cold to the touch when the AC is running. Go to home depot and get pipe insulation for 80 cents a yard or what ever and install it using zip ties to secure. This keeps the cold low pressure lines cold until they get to the evaporator inside the dash.

Make sure the insulation doesn't touch exhaust or the turbo parts that get hot. They shouldn't be anywhere near those parts in the first place but just in case.

You do run the risk of icing up the evaporator if your AC is already ice cold or if you use the AC in cold temps (like defrosting your windows in the winter) but this is only a temporary problem that goes away if you shut the ac off for a bit.

 

Okay. Checked those valves and they are closed.